14th November 2025
Dear Parent Carers,
Weekly Update: 14/11/25
I hope this update finds you well. Today marks Children In Need, a day that raises money and awareness for disadvantaged children who face a range of issues. Students have taken part in activities this afternoon, as well as dressing up in their Pudsey wear. Thank you for supporting us to raise funds for this vital charity. To donate to Children In Need, please go to their donation page: https://donate.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk/
Online Safety – Group Chats
We have recently seen an increase in reports from students about challenges and concerns related to online group chats. These platforms can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or exposure to inappropriate content, which can affect students’ wellbeing.
To support families in navigating these issues, we have included an Information Guide on Online Safety – Group Chats. This resource provides practical advice on how to help your child stay safe, make positive choices, and manage their online interactions responsibly.
Thank you for working with us to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all our students, both in school and online.
If you have any concerns regarding your child’s safety online, please contact the Family Support Team who are able to provide additional resources or advice.
Mini Monster Marathon
Thank you for supporting us with our fundraising this year. So far we have raised over £2,264 through the Mini Monster Marathon! This money will go towards either resources in school or an experience to boost cultural capital experiences. Previously, fundraising has paid for swings, as well as trips to the beach and Spring Lakes.
Horizons Contact
If you would like to get in touch with the Horizons team regarding attendance or any other student related matter, please call the main school phone number on 01332 571151 – we no longer have an Option 2 for Horizons. Mel Lane, who was based at Irongate, is now working in the office at the main school. All of the Admin Team are able to support with any queries you may have.
Toni Beardmore Headteacher
St Martins School, The Derwent Campus, Bracknell Drive, Alvaston, Derby, DE24 0BT Tel: 01332 571151 Email: admin@stmartins.set.org Online: www.stmartinsschoolderby.co.uk
Congratulations
Congratulations are due to Saffron Hanley and family as they welcomed baby girl Ottilie into the world last Saturday, weighing 6lbs 10oz. We look forward to seeing Saffron and baby Ottilie soon!
Farewell
Today, we say thank you and farewell to Ryan Gascoine and Tina Brady.
Ryan has worked at St Martins since 2017, initially starting as a Teaching Assistant before utilising his skills to become a Learning Mentor for Transitions. Ryan has taken on an exciting new role within Derby City Council, where he will continue to make a positive difference for young people with SEND. We wish Ryan all the best for this exciting new step.
Tina has worked as our Receptionist at St Martins since 2021. Tina is leaving the school to start working for the Respect Collaboration as a Finance Clerk. We wish Tina all the best for this new role.
With best wishes,
Toni Beardmore Headteacher
Dates for your diaries:
Date
Wednesday 26th November at 5:00pm
Thursday 11th December
Event
Certificate Presentation Evening for last year’s Year 11 and Year 13 students.
Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day
Details
Invitations have been posted home.
Information to follow.
Tuesday 16th December time TBC Winter Wonder Show Information to follow.
Tuesday 16th December from 2:30pm-3:30pm Christmas Market Information to follow.
Wednesday 17th December
Christmas Dinner for students Information to follow.
Toni Beardmore Headteacher
St Martins School, The Derwent Campus, Bracknell Drive, Alvaston, Derby, DE24 0BT Tel: 01332 571151 Email: admin@stmartins.set.org Online: www.stmartinsschoolderby.co.uk
Term Dates 2025/2026
Autumn Term 2025
School Starts Back – Monday 3rd November
School Breaks up for Christmas – Friday 19th December
Spring Term 2026
INSET Day – Monday 5th January 2026
School Starts Back – Tuesday 6th January
School Breaks up for Half Term – Friday 13th February
School Starts Back – Monday 23rd February
School Breaks up for Easter – Friday 27th March
Summer Term 2026
School Starts Back – Monday 13th April
INSET Day – Friday 1st May
Bank Holiday – Monday 4th May
School Breaks up for Half Term – Friday 22nd May
School Starts Back – Monday 1st June
School Breaks up for Summer – Wednesday 22nd July
INSET Day – Thursday 23rd July
St Martins follows Derby City Council’s term dates. Dates for next year can be found on their website – please follow the link for these - https://derby.gov.uk/educationand-learning/schools-and-colleges/term-holiday-dates/#
Social Media Links
Facebook - St. Martins School Facebook Instagram - St. Martins School Instagram
Toni Beardmore Headteacher
St Martins School, The Derwent Campus, Bracknell Drive, Alvaston, Derby, DE24 0BT Tel: 01332 571151 Email: admin@stmartins.set.org Online: www.stmartinsschoolderby.co.uk